Jason Rojas

Happy Read Across America Week! Did you know that Read Across America Week (and day – celebrated on Dr. Suess' birthday on March 2) was established by the National Education Association (NEA) in 1998 to help get kids excited about reading? In celebration, reading parties, often with guest readers, are held at schools and libraries across the country.

Many of the General Assembly's committees are deep into the process of drafting and raising the legislative concepts that could be passed during the session. Did you know that part of this process involves you? Unlike many states, the Connecticut legislature allows anyone to sign up and testify on proposed legislation. Public hearings are an essential component of the bill making process.

I hope everyone is getting through the cold this week brought – warmer weather is ahead. A reminder that state and local offices will be closed in observance of President's Day, so please plan accordingly!

The House of Representatives is now in session! From now until May 4, the Connecticut General Assembly will be in what's known as a "short session." Constitutionally, our primary job during the "short session" is adjusting the existing state budget. I expect that we will also take up important initiatives to reduce costs for working families and small businesses, improve our mental and behavioral health system, support our schools, and continue building our workforce pipeline.

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month – did you know that in 2019, 8 percent of Connecticut high school students reported being physically abused by a dating partner. Unfortunately, we also know this number is not a true reflection of the problem as only 33 percent of teens in abusive relationships tell anyone and it's reported that 81 percent of parents believe teen dating violence is not an issue or admit they don’t know if it’s an issue.

As National Blood Donor Month comes to a close the Red Cross faces the worst blood shortage in a decade and more than ever, your help is needed. The recent winter weather and COVID-19 surge forced the closure of hundreds of blood drives to be canceled, forcing approximately 7,400 blood and platelet donations to go uncollected according to the Red Cross. Maintaining the blood supply is critical to ensuring accident victims who are rushed to emergency rooms, those being treated for cancer, and others who count on transfusions can receive life-saving care without delay.

There's only 18 days left until the start of the 2022 legislative session! As I mentioned in last week's newsletter, legislators are beginning to draft legislation and set priorities for the coming session. A reminder to keep an eye on the mail in the coming days as I will be sending a survey on possible legislation around shortly. I look forward to hearing from you and continuing to bring the voices of our community to the work we are doing at the State Capitol.

January is flying by, and the 2022 legislative session is right around the corner! While we don't gavel in until Wednesday, February 9, the legislative process has already begun with the proposed bill system now open and committee deadlines now set. Legislators, including myself, are beginning to draft legislation and set priorities for the coming session.